Preparing Your Dog For a New Baby

posted: Mar. 04, 2019.

A new baby will change the entire dynamic of your home life and it is best to be prepared BEFORE you bring the baby home. Every dog is different - even if you follow all recommendations, there is no guarantee that your dog will not react aggressively. Never leave a dog unattended with your baby. If you have serious concerns, it is best to get in touch with a trainer months before you expect to bring your baby home.

Make gradual changes before you bring your new baby home (preferably starting a couple of months ahead of time). Institute any new rules or expected changes in advance.
Consider obedience training if your dogs has never learned the basics.
Consider hiring a dog walker or taking your dog to doggy daycare a couple of times a week so he/she still gets plenty of exercise. This can start a few weeks before the baby is expected so your dog does not associate this change in routine with the baby.
Dissociate - Decrease the amount of attention you give your dog 2-3 weeks before you bring the baby home. This prevents an abrupt loss of attention and helps reduce resentment your dog may feel toward your baby.
Teach your dog to “Go away” or “Go to place.” This gives you the ability to remove your dog from a stressful situation quickly and also lets the dog know that when you give this command, he/she can go to a safe place.
When bringing your baby home, greet your dog alone so the baby does not get caught in the middle. Introduce your dog to your baby slowly, with a leash on the dog. Avoid initial face to face contact and never leave your dog alone with your baby.
Give your dog LOTS of attention when the baby is around and less attention when your baby is napping or not around. This will help your dog associate the baby with good things!
Never force your dog to interact with the baby, not even for a super cute picture. It is a myth that only “aggressive” dogs will attack a child. Babies and children are usually unable to read the warning signs that a dog is exhibiting.
GET HELP - If you have doubts or your dog shows any aggressive behavior around your baby for any reason, keep your dog away from your child at all times and contact an animal behavior expert immediately.